Essentials of Systems Analysis and Design, 6e (Valacich) Chapter The Systems Development Environment 1) The end user is not the person in the organization most involved in the systems analysis and design process Answer: TRUE Explanation: The Systems Analyst is the person in the organization most involved with the systems analysis and design process L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the role of information systems in supporting business processes Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 2) Systems analysis is the second phase of the systems development life cycle Answer: TRUE Explanation: There are four key SDLC stages discussed in this book: Planning and selection Analysis Design Implementation and operation L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 3) The main goal of systems analysis and design is to improve organizational systems, typically through applying software that can help employees accomplish key business tasks more easily and efficiently Answer: TRUE Explanation: Information systems analysis and design methods are employed by many companies to create and maintain basic information systems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Discuss the role of information systems in supporting business processes Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 4) Application software is also called a system Answer: TRUE Explanation: Application software often is simply referred to as a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 5) An information system does not include hardware and systems software Answer: FALSE Explanation: The hardware and systems software are an integral part of the information system, since they are both needed in order for the system to operate at all L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 6) Methodologies are a sequence of step-by-step approaches that help to develop the information system Answer: TRUE Explanation: Methodologies are widely used to provide a framework for developing a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 7) All methodologies incorporate only one development technique Answer: FALSE Explanation: Most methodologies incorporate several different development techniques, such as direct observation L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 8) Techniques generally only provide support for one task Answer: FALSE Explanation: Techniques provide support for a wide range of tasks, including conducting interviews, planning and managing activities L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 9) Techniques are processes that you, as an analyst, will follow to help ensure that your work is well thought-out, complete, and comprehensible to others on your project team Answer: TRUE Explanation: Techniques are processes that provide support for a wide range of tasks and assist in the SDLC L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 10) CASE is an example of a tool Answer: TRUE Explanation: Tools are computer programs that make it easy to use specific techniques L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 11) A system is an interrelated set of business procedures used by one business unit, working together for a purpose Answer: TRUE Explanation: A system is a group of business procedures which are used for a business function L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 12) A component is the line that marks the inside or outside of a system Answer: FALSE Explanation: A component is an irreducible part or aggregation of parts that makes up a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 13) A boundary often is called a subsystem Answer: FALSE Explanation: A boundary is the line that marks the inside or outside of a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 14) Components are most likely interrelated Answer: TRUE Explanation: Components are interrelated since the function of one part can be tied to the function of another L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 15) A boundary marks the inside and outside of a system and sets the system apart from its environment Answer: TRUE Explanation: A system boundary contains all components of a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 16) The overall goal of an information system is called its meaning Answer: FALSE Explanation: The purpose of an information system is its overall goal L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 17) A system exists within an environment, which consists of everything outside of the system Answer: TRUE Explanation: An environment consists of all external entities that could interact with the system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 18) Components are parts, or an aggregation of parts of the system Answer: TRUE Explanation: Components are an irreducible part of the system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 19) A boundary is the point of contact where a system meets its environment or where subsystems meet each other Answer: FALSE Explanation: A boundary is the line that marks the inside and outside of a system and sets it apart from its environment L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 20) Systems analysts are key to the systems development process Answer: TRUE Explanation: A systems analyst is responsible within an organization for the design and analysis of an information system L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the role of information systems in supporting business processes Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 21) A systems development methodology is a standard process followed in an organization to conduct all the steps necessary to analyze, design, implement, and maintain information systems Answer: TRUE Explanation: Organizations use a standard set of steps, called a systems development methodology, to develop and support their information systems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 22) A systems development technique is the series of steps used to mark the phases of development for an information system Answer: FALSE Explanation: Organizations use a standard set of steps, called a systems development methodology, to develop and support their information systems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 23) The systems development life cycle is a sequentially ordered set of phases Answer: FALSE Explanation: The SDLC is meant to be adapted for the needs of each organization, even though at first glance it appears to be sequential L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems, Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 24) The phases of the systems development life cycle are circular in nature Answer: TRUE Explanation: The SDLC is meant to be adapted for the needs of each organization, even though at first glance it appears to be sequential L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems, Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 25) In the systems development life cycle, it is possible to complete some activities in one phase in parallel with some activities of another phase Answer: TRUE Explanation: In the systems development life cycle, it is also possible to complete some activities in one phase in parallel with some activities of another phase L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems, Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 26) Sometimes the systems development life cycle (SDLC) is iterative Answer: TRUE Explanation: Sometimes, phases are repeated until an acceptable system is found L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems, Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 27) The second task in systems analysis is to investigate the system and determine the proposed system's scope Answer: FALSE Explanation: The second phase is systems analysis, where the current system is studied and alternates are proposed L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 28) Logical design is tied to a specific hardware and software platform Answer: FALSE Explanation: Logical design is not tied to a specific hardware platform L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Synthesis AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 29) During logical design, the analyst team decides which programming languages the computer instructions should be written in, which database systems and file structures will be used for the data, and which hardware platform, operating system, and network environment the system will run under Answer: FALSE Explanation: During the systems implementation and operation phase the team decides upon programming language, databases, file structure, etc L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge 30) Involving the user in analysis and design is a key advantage to the prototyping technique Answer: TRUE Explanation: When prototyping, the analyst always works with the end users L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 31) A key principle of the Agile Methodologies is a clear focus on people rather than roles Answer: TRUE Explanation: Agile involves short, iterative cycles and focuses on people L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 32) An information system interacts with its environment by: A) processing data B) receiving data C) XML protocols D) systems analysts E) sending data Answer: B Explanation: B) An information system interacts with its environment by receiving data and information L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 33) A system is separated from other systems by a(n): A) interface B) barrier C) boundary D) border E) cross-platform Answer: A Explanation: A) An interface is a point of contact where a system meets its environment or where subsystems meet each other L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 34) A system's capacity can be viewed as a(n): A) system benefit B) on-going issue C) system constraint D) liability E) cost center Answer: C Explanation: C) A constraint is a limit to what a system can L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 35) Breaking a system down into its smaller components is called: A) cohesion B) modularity C) exertion D) coupling E) decompressing Answer: B Explanation: B) Modularity is the process of dividing a system into smaller chunks L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 36) results in smaller and less complex systems that are easier to understand than larger, complicated systems A) Cohesion B) Compaction C) Modularity D) Chopping E) Reduction Answer: C Explanation: C) Modularity results in smaller and less complex systems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 37) A direct result of decomposition is: A) composition B) cohesion C) adherence D) divergence E) modularity Answer: E Explanation: E) Modularity divides a system up into smaller chunks L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 38) The extent to which subsystems depend on each other is called: A) cohesion B) coupling C) inheritance D) morphism E) dependence Answer: B Explanation: B) Coupling is the extent to which subsystems depend on each other L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 39) A(n) is conducted before the second phase of the SDLC to determine the economic and organizational impact of the system A) feasibility study B) essential study C) scheduling study D) planning session E) project discussion Answer: A Explanation: A) The feasibility study is part of the system planning phase, where an organization determines whether resources should be devoted to the development or enhancement of each information system being considered L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 40) The output of the systems planning and selection phase is: A) a description of the alternative solution recommended by the analysis team B) a detailed project proposal C) a basic project plan D) a baseline project plan E) a cost benefit analysis Answer: D Explanation: D) The output is the baseline project plan L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Discuss best practices for selecting, evaluating, and managing information systems projects Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 10 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 62) The point of contact where a system meets its environment or other subsystems is called a(n): A) component B) interface C) border D) object E) fence Answer: B Explanation: B) An interface is the point of contact where a system meets its environment or other subsystems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge 63) An aggregation of parts is also called a(n): A) interface B) subsystem C) collection D) accumulation Answer: B Explanation: B) A system can be either an irreducible part or an aggregate of parts, which can be called a subsystem L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 64) The overall goal or function of a system best defines: A) purpose B) goal C) objective D) scope E) mission Answer: A Explanation: A) A system has a defined purpose which is the reason for existing L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 18 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 65) The environment of a state university would NOT include: A) prospective students B) the legislature C) the president's office D) the news media E) a foundation Answer: C Explanation: C) A system exists within its environment So, in this case, it does not exist within the news media but does exist within the other organizations or groups of people L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 66) The point of contact where a system meets its environment or where subsystems meet each other best describes: A) boundary points B) interfaces C) contact points D) merge points E) forks Answer: B Explanation: B) An interface is where the system meets either its environment or other subsystems In this case, we are not talking about a boundary, which defines the limits of a system or merging/forking L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 67) The process of breaking the description of a system down into its smaller components best defines: A) coupling B) cohesion C) decomposition D) modularity E) scaling Answer: C Explanation: C) None of the other choices match since coupling defines how subsystems depend on each other, cohesion describes the extent to which a system performs a single task and modularity involves dividing a system into smaller chunks of equal size Scaling refers to scalability of a system L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 19 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 68) Which of the following is NOT a function of decomposition? A) Permit different parts of the system to be built at the same time by the same person B) Allow attention to be concentrated on the part of the system pertinent to a particular audience, without confusing people with details irrelevant to their interests C) Facilitate the focusing of attention on one area (subsystem) at a time without interference from other parts D) Break a system into smaller, more manageable and understandable subsystems E) Build different parts of the system at independent times and have the help of different analysts Answer: A Explanation: A) Since decomposition involves focusing on one part of a system at a time, doing a parallel build of a system would not really be defined as decomposition L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Analytical Thinking 69) Which of the following is a direct result of decomposition? A) Coupling B) Open systems C) Cohesion D) Modularity E) Interfaces Answer: D Explanation: D) Since decomposition involves dividing a system into smaller chunks to work on one part, it follows that modularity of the system would result L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 70) The extent to which subsystems depend on each other refers to: A) modularity B) coupling C) decomposition D) dependence E) cohesion Answer: B Explanation: B) Modularity dictates that a system is broken down into chunks Coupling describes the concept of the extent to which systems depend on one another Decomposition is the process of breaking a system down into smaller pieces to work on one part at a time Cohesion describes the extent to which a system performs one function Dependence is not really a term defined in the text The only logical choice is coupling L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 20 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 71) The extent to which a system or subsystem performs a single function defines: A) modularity B) coupling C) decomposition D) dependence E) cohesion Answer: E Explanation: E) Modularity dictates that a system is broken down into chunks Coupling describes the concept of the extent to which systems depend on one another Decomposition is the process of breaking a system down into smaller pieces to work on one part at a time Cohesion describes the extent to which a system performs one function Dependence is not really a term defined in the text The only logical choice is cohesion L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 72) Today, systems development focuses on: A) modularity B) coupling C) decomposition D) systems integration E) systems implementation Answer: D Explanation: D) Systems integration allows hardware and software from different vendors to work together in one application Since much has been developed today as far as software, often times, the role of the development team is more one of bringing together different components and making them work together L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 21 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 73) Which of the following allows hardware and software from different vendors to work together in an application? A) Systems coupling B) Systems integration C) Systems decomposition D) Participatory design E) Joint application design Answer: B Explanation: B) Systems integration allows hardware and software from different vendors to work together in one application Since much has been developed today as far as software, often times, the role of the development team is more one of bringing together different components and making them work together L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Application of Knowledge, Information Technology 74) Analytical skills: A) help you work with end users, as well as other analysts and programmers B) help you understand the potential and the limitations of information technology C) help you manage projects, resources, risk, and change D) enable you to understand the organization and its functions, to identify opportunities and problems, and to analyze and solve problems E) promote an understanding of the different types of information systems Answer: D Explanation: D) Analytical skills are most useful for the systems analyst in terms of understanding a project and how it fits into an organization L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the key issues involved in managing the components of IT infrastructure Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Interpersonal Relations and Teamwork 75) Technical skills: A) help you work with end users, as well as other analysts and programmers B) help you understand the potential and the limitations of information technology C) help you manage projects, resources, risk, and change D) enable you to understand the organization and its functions, to identify opportunities and problems, and to analyze and solve problems E) promote an understanding of the different types of information systems Answer: B Explanation: B) Technical skills are most helpful in understanding what can be done with technology that you wish to use for a system L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the key issues involved in managing the components of IT infrastructure Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Interpersonal Relations and Teamwork 22 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 76) Management skills: A) help you work with end users, as well as other analysts and programmers B) help you understand the potential and the limitations of information technology C) help you manage projects, resources, risk, and change D) enable you to understand the organization and its functions, to identify opportunities and problems, and to analyze and solve problems E) promote an understanding of the different types of information systems Answer: C Explanation: C) Management skills are most helpful when managing projects, resources and risks L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the key issues involved in managing the components of IT infrastructure Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Interpersonal Relations and Teamwork 77) Interpersonal skills: A) help you work with end users, as well as other analysts and programmers B) help you understand the potential and the limitations of information technology C) help you manage projects, resources, risk, and change D) enable you to understand the organization and its functions, to identify opportunities and problems, and to analyze and solve problems E) promote an understanding of the different types of information systems Answer: A Explanation: A) Of all the choices above, the logical one is the first one since interpersonal skills are most beneficial for working with all constituencies L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Discuss the key issues involved in managing the components of IT infrastructure Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Interpersonal Relations and Teamwork 78) Organizations use a standard set of steps to develop and support their information systems, which is called the: A) system design model B) systems development methodology C) waterford model D) becker methodology E) systems programming methodology Answer: B Explanation: B) A systems development methodology is a specific set of steps defined by an organization to develop information systems L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Discuss the role of information systems in supporting business processes Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 23 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 79) The need for a new or enhanced system is identified during: A) systems planning and selection B) systems coding C) systems analysis D) systems design E) systems implementation and operation Answer: A Explanation: A) All of the other choices are done after the need for the system has been defined whereas choice A describes a specific step in the SDLC where need is identified L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 80) In which SDLC phase will the analyst study the organization's current procedures and the information systems used to perform tasks? A) Systems planning and selection B) Systems observation C) Systems analysis D) Systems design E) Systems implementation and operation Answer: C Explanation: C) A complete and detailed study of the current procedures is done as part of analysis L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 81) In which phase will the systems analyst convert the description of the recommended alternative solution into logical and then physical system specifications? A) Systems planning and selection B) Systems conversion C) Systems analysis D) Systems design E) Systems implementation and operation Answer: D Explanation: D) During the design phase, all specifications are written L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 24 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 82) A description of the alternative solution recommended by the analysis team is provided during the: A) systems planning and selection phase B) systems design phase C) systems analysis phase D) systems implementation and operation phase E) systems alternative selection phase Answer: C Explanation: C) During the analysis phase any alternative solutions are recommended and included in analysis documents L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 83) In which SDLC phase is the information system coded, tested, and installed in the organization? A) Systems planning and selection B) Systems replacement C) Systems analysis D) Systems design E) Systems implementation and operation Answer: E Explanation: E) During the implementation and operation phase all parts of the system are put into place and tested L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 84) Priorities for systems and projects are deliverables for the: A) systems planning and selection phase B) systems analysis phase C) systems design phase D) systems priority phase E) systems implementation and operation phase Answer: A Explanation: A) Systems planning and selection involves identifying priorities for projects L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 25 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 85) Which of the following is NOT an approach to systems development? A) Prototyping B) Reengineering analysis C) Joint application design D) Agile Methodologies E) Rapid application development Answer: B Explanation: B) Agile, prototyping, rapid application development and joint application design are all part of systems development Reengineering analysis is not L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 86) Building a scaled-down version of the desired system best describes: A) prototyping B) Agile Methodologies C) joint application design D) reengineering analysis E) rapid application development Answer: A Explanation: A) All other choices may include a prototype as part of the methodology, but specifically prototyping does answer the question about building a scaled-down version of the system L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 87) A systems development methodology created to radically decrease the time needed to design and implement information systems best describes: A) Participatory Design (PD) B) rapid application development C) joint application design D) CASE E) Agile Methodologies Answer: B Explanation: B) Rapid application development was specifically designed to decrease development time of information systems L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 26 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 88) A systems development approach that originated in northern Europe, in which users and the improvement of their work lives are the central focus, best defines: A) participatory design (PD) B) rapid application development C) joint application design D) CASE E) Agile Methodologies Answer: A Explanation: A) Participatory design is one of the few development approaches which focus on the users L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 89) A centralized database that contains all diagrams, forms and report definitions, data structure, data definitions, process flows and logic, and definitions of other organizational and system components best describes a(n): A) information safe B) code generator C) repository D) data generator E) project database Answer: C Explanation: C) A repository is the place where all assets for a system are stored L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Discuss best practices for using and managing databases Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology 90) Current approaches to systems development that focus on adaptive methodologies, people instead of roles, and an overall self-adaptive development process best defines: A) participatory design B) rapid application development C) joint application design D) CASE E) Agile Methodologies Answer: E Explanation: E) Agile methodologies focuses on small teams of talented programmers as well as short, iterative development cycles L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Compare and contrast different methods for developing information systems Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 27 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 91) All of the following are constraints EXCEPT: A) due dates B) regulations C) limited number of staff available D) choice of programming language E) speed of system Answer: D Explanation: D) All of the other choices are constraints of a system Choice of a programming language is more controllable L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 92) The ability to see organizations as systems is called: A) systems thinking B) analytical thinking C) organizational analytics D) algorithmic analysis E) system decomposition Answer: A Explanation: A) Systems thinking is the ability that a systems analyst should have to see organizations and information systems as systems L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Concept AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 93) In addition to application software, discuss what else comprises an information system Answer: Besides the application software, an information system consists of the following: a Hardware b Systems software which runs the application software on the hardware c Documentation and training materials d Specific job roles associated with the overall system e Controls to prevent theft and fraud f People who use the software L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 28 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 94) What are methodologies, techniques, and tools? Answer: Methodologies are comprehensive, multiple-step approaches to systems development Techniques are particular processes that you follow to help ensure that your work is complete, well-done, and understood by others Tools are typically computer programs that make it easier to use and benefit from techniques and to follow faithfully the guidelines of the overall development methodology The techniques and tools should support the chosen methodology Methodologies, techniques, and tools work together to form an organizational approach to systems analysis and design L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Synthesis AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 95) Briefly define the term system Answer: A system is an interrelated set of procedures which are used within one business unit to work together for some purpose Systems have a distinct purpose, such as keeping track of customer orders or paying vendors for supplies L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Synthesis AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 96) Describe the term component as related to systems Discuss how components can work together Answer: A system is made up of components, which are either irreducible or an aggregate of other components Within a system, components are interrelated in such ways that one component might work with another component in order to accomplish one of the tasks which the system is designed to complete L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 97) Describe what decomposition is used for Answer: Decomposition results in smaller pieces of a system which are then easier to work with This is accomplished by breaking a system down into smaller components Decomposition allows the systems analyst to focus attention on one area of the system, focus on one part of the system pertinent to a group of users and build parts of the system independently L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 29 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 98) Why is coupling not advantageous for systems? Answer: Coupling occurs when subsystems are dependent upon each other In general, subsystems should be built to be independent of each other In this way, if one subsystem fails then the other is not impacted L.O.: 1.1 Describe information systems analysis and design CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Synthesis AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge, Analytical Thinking 99) Describe the role of a systems analyst Answer: A systems analyst has the primary role to study the problems and needs of an organization to determine how to best combine people, methods and information technology in order to improve the organization In addition, he or she helps users and business managers define their requirements for a project L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 100) Discuss the types of skills needed in order to succeed as a systems analyst Answer: Systems analysts need to develop four types of skills in order to succeed Analytical skills are needed to understand the organization and its functions, identify opportunities and problems and to analyze and solve problems Technical skills help you to understand the potential and limitation of information technology Management skills help you to manage projects as well as the people involved Finally, interpersonal skills help you to work with users as well as other members of the technical team L.O.: 1.2 Describe the role of the systems analyst in information systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 101) List and briefly describe the four major SDLC phases Answer: The four phases are systems planning and selection, systems analysis, systems design, and systems implementation and operation Systems planning and selection is the first phase of the SDLC, in which an organization's total information system needs are analyzed and arranged, and in which a potential information systems project is identified and an argument for continuing or not continuing with the project is presented During systems analysis, the current system is studied and alternative replacement systems are proposed During systems design, analysts convert the description of the proposed system into logical and then physical system specifications During systems implementation and operation, the information system is coded, tested, and installed in the organization During this phase the system is systematically repaired and improved L.O.: 1.3 Describe the information systems development life cycle (SDLC) CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Synthesis AACSB: Information Technology, Analytical Thinking 30 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 102) List and briefly discuss six approaches to systems development Answer: Prototyping, Computer-Aided Software Engineering tools, joint application design, rapid application development, Participatory Design, and Agile Methodologies are the six approaches mentioned in the textbook Prototyping is an iterative process of systems development by which requirements are converted to a working system The prototype is continually revised through close work between an analyst and users The analyst builds the prototype from requirements supplied by the end users Once the prototype is completed, it is evaluated by the end users Based on the feedback provided by the end users, the analyst will modify the prototype This results in an iterative process that continues until users are satisfied Computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools provide automated support for some part of the systems development process Joint application design (JAD) is a structured process in which users, managers, and analysts work together for several days in a series of intensive meetings to specify or review system requirements By promoting group participation, time and organizational resources are better managed Also, the group is more likely to develop a shared understanding of the IS purpose Rapid application development (RAD) is a systems development methodology created to radically decrease the time needed to design and implement information systems Participatory Design is a systems development approach that originated in northern Europe, in which users and the improvement in their work lives are the central focus Agile Methodologies focus on adaptive methodologies, people instead of roles, and an overall self-adaptive development process L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 103) Briefly discuss prototyping Answer: When one designs and builds a scaled-down version of a system, this is called prototyping A prototype can be built with a CASE tool, which automates many of the steps in the systems development life cycle The prototype is given to the user for feedback and then revised as needed This is done iteratively The key advantages to this approach are: involvement of the user in the design of the system and the ability to capture requirements in a concrete format L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 31 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc 104) Identify six general types of CASE tools Answer: Diagramming tools, computer display and report generators, analysis tools, central repository, documentation generators, and code generators are the six general types of CASE tools mentioned in the textbook L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 105) Briefly discuss joint application design Answer: Joint application design is a structured process which brings together users, managers and analysts for several days of intensive meetings to specify or review system requirements This approach utilizes time and organizational resources much better L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 106) What is participatory design? Answer: Participatory design is an approach to systems development where the central focus is on users and the improvement of their work lives It was originally developed in northern Europe L.O.: 1.4 List alternatives to the systems development life cycle, including a description of the role of computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools in systems development CLLO: Describe the components of an information system (IS) Classification: Application AACSB: Information Technology, Application of Knowledge 32 Copyright © 2015 Pearson Education, Inc ... procedures and the information systems used to perform tasks? A) Systems planning and selection B) Systems observation C) Systems analysis D) Systems design E) Systems implementation and operation... for systems and projects are deliverables for the: A) systems planning and selection phase B) systems analysis phase C) systems design phase D) systems priority phase E) systems implementation and. .. List and briefly describe the four major SDLC phases Answer: The four phases are systems planning and selection, systems analysis, systems design, and systems implementation and operation Systems